The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Ahmedabad, in a joint operation with income tax officials, has unearthed a massive cricket betting racket. The raids, conducted on May 8th across 11 locations in the city, resulted in the seizure of over ₹18 crore in cash, 1 kg of gold, and approximately ₹64 lakh in foreign currency.
Investigation Leads to Raids
According to Mukesh Patel, Superintendent of Police (SP) for CID Crime in the Ahmedabad zone, the operation stemmed from a previous case of cricket betting investigated by the CID. Analysis of online gaming accounts linked to the case revealed suspicious activity, leading them to identify several gambling companies operating within Ahmedabad.
On May 8th, authorities mobilized income tax officers, police inspectors, and body-worn camera teams for simultaneous raids on the identified locations. The meticulous operation yielded significant results.
₹18.55 Crore Cash, Gold, and Foreign Currency Seized
SP Patel elaborated on the recovered items, stating, “During the raid, a total of Rs 18.55 crore in cash, 1kg of gold, and approximately 64 lakh foreign currency were found from different locations.” The seized cash has been reported to the income tax department, while electronic devices confiscated during the raids will undergo analysis at the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
While the raids yielded substantial evidence, SP Patel clarified that no arrests have been made so far in connection with the case. The CID is likely to conduct further investigations to identify and apprehend the key players involved in the betting operation.
Cricket Betting: A Lucrative Yet Illegal Activity
Cricket betting is a widespread yet illegal activity in India. Large sums of money are wagered on the outcome of matches, often through online platforms or clandestine networks. These operations not only pose a financial risk to participants but can also have connections to organized crime and money laundering.
The Ahmedabad CID’s successful operation highlights the authorities’ ongoing efforts to combat illegal cricket betting. The substantial seizure of cash and valuables indicates the significant scale of this particular betting ring. Further investigation and potential arrests can dismantle the network and send a strong message as a deterrent to similar activities.
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